With the prospect of keeping my truck longer I am thinking long term. I don't want to keep dealing with a weak electronic power steering that is prone to failure (see the thread on all the rack replacements). If it isn't under warranty anymore why not retro what the trucks with the 6.2 use? The steering rack should bolt to the frame just the same. I found a website with a kit that let's you add power steering but it also comes with a compressor. It adds a new bracket. Looks like a combo. They also have a pdd the site with instructions. Interesting
http://www.vintageair.com/cyotfrntrnnr.asp

 

How many of these units have actually failed? I haven't heard of many.

 

Define failure? Completely dying or knocking badly? These haven't been around long enough to know how well they will work. (time vs mileage) . Obviously Ford doesn't trust them the same because they cant be used on plows. Anyway... It's something I think I would consider if mine died or needed replacement out of warranty.

 

Any failure would qualify. The plow thing is because the electrical system cannot handle the draw of adjusting a plow and turning simultaneously. Has nothing to do with longevity.

I asked because as you said we don't have any idea about how they will last. Seems to be borrowing trouble to worry about it to me. I haven't heard of many having problems. Just a few.